

Hub Podcasts
Hub Media Canada
Welcome to Hub Podcasts, the audio version of the big ideas and in-depth conversations found at TheHub.ca, Canada’s fastest growing digital news outlet with half a million people engaging weekly with our content.
Hub Dialogues features The Hub's editor-at-large Sean Speer and managing editor Harrison Lowman engaged in longform conversations with leading thinkers on the big issues and ideas shaping the public conversation.
In Conversation with David Frum features the insights and analysis of leading author, journalist, and thinker David Frum, who weighs in every second Friday on global and Canadian news events.
The Hub's media criticism podcast Full Press looks at how the media in Canada is covering the major stories of the day. Full press is hosted by The Hub's managing editor Harrison Lowman, and features journalist Tara Henley, and veteran news media executive Peter Menzies.
Hub Headlines features audio versions of the best analysis published daily in The Hub. Enjoy listening to original and provocative takes on the issues that matter while you are on the go.
Each Friday, The Hub Roundtable features Hub co-founders Rudyard Griffiths' and Sean Speer's take on the big political and economic stories making the news.
Hub Dialogues features The Hub's editor-at-large Sean Speer and managing editor Harrison Lowman engaged in longform conversations with leading thinkers on the big issues and ideas shaping the public conversation.
In Conversation with David Frum features the insights and analysis of leading author, journalist, and thinker David Frum, who weighs in every second Friday on global and Canadian news events.
The Hub's media criticism podcast Full Press looks at how the media in Canada is covering the major stories of the day. Full press is hosted by The Hub's managing editor Harrison Lowman, and features journalist Tara Henley, and veteran news media executive Peter Menzies.
Hub Headlines features audio versions of the best analysis published daily in The Hub. Enjoy listening to original and provocative takes on the issues that matter while you are on the go.
Each Friday, The Hub Roundtable features Hub co-founders Rudyard Griffiths' and Sean Speer's take on the big political and economic stories making the news.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 20, 2025 • 19min
Why Carney's warning to Israel will cause more harm than good
Noah Shack, the interim president of the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs, dives deep into the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He discusses a recent international call for Israel to halt military actions and emphasizes the importance of accountability from both Israel and Hamas. Shack advocates for a two-state solution and highlights the need for collaboration between Israelis and Palestinians. He also addresses the rise of anti-Semitism in Canada related to foreign policy and the challenges of providing humanitarian aid without enabling Hamas.

May 20, 2025 • 11min
Canada beats the U.S. in quality of life — but for how long?
Alicia Planincic, Director of Policy & Economics at the Business Council of Alberta, dives into the intriguing comparisons between Canada and the U.S. She reveals that Canada often leads in health, education, and social well-being, despite some alarming declines. However, Alicia points out that Canadians face economic challenges, especially in income growth, raising questions on financial stability. The discussion delves into the delicate balance Canada must maintain between enhancing economic performance and preserving its quality of life achievements.

May 20, 2025 • 33min
Debbie Gamble on the future of digital payments in Canada
Debbie Gamble is the Group Head and Chief Strategy Officer at Interac, deeply involved in shaping Canada's payment landscape. She shares insights on the evolution of Canada's payment system, highlighting Interac’s critical role in fraud prevention and supporting local businesses. The conversation delves into the future of real-time payments, comparing Canada’s progress to other nations. Gamble emphasizes the need for enhanced digital infrastructure to boost the economy while encouraging collaboration in fintech to navigate challenges.

May 20, 2025 • 14min
How serious is the Alberta separatism question?
Explore the intriguing question of Alberta's potential separation from Canada, as public sentiment shifts amid frustrations with the federal government. Discover the historical context fueling separatist desires and the diverse opinions among Albertans. The discussion also tackles the economic challenges facing Canada and underscores the vital need for independent journalism free from government influence. Delve into the complexities of media subsidies and the pursuit of a sustainable model that champions multiple perspectives.

10 snips
May 19, 2025 • 33min
Uri Kaufman on why progressives are so hostile to Israel
Uri Kaufman, an author known for his book American Intifada, delves into the cognitive dissonance fueling ideologies against Israel. He argues that it’s not just protesting students but influential institutions that alter facts to fit a progressive narrative, leading to a new form of antisemitism. Kaufman critiques historical misunderstandings surrounding Zionism and emphasizes the necessity for informed dialogues. He highlights the complexities of identity politics and urges for diverse perspectives to foster understanding within cultural institutions.

May 19, 2025 • 14min
Can Mark Carney reconcile Canada’s growing divides?
Explore the complex challenge of reconciling Canada's growing divides, focusing on the economic disparities between generations. Delve into the urgency for a new government approach to restore trust among citizens. The discussion highlights the contentious blame surrounding job losses related to trade with China, versus the often overlooked benefits such as reduced prices for consumers. Engage with thought-provoking analyses that question conventional narratives while emphasizing the need for bold policy changes.

May 17, 2025 • 12min
Did Mark Carney just pull a Joe Clark with his budget delay?
Prime Minister Mark Carney's recent budget delay raises eyebrows, as Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne defends the move. The discussion delves into the impact on public confidence and parallels with past budget postponements. Navigating a backdrop of improving geopolitical stability, they analyze economic indicators like consumer confidence. The conversation then shifts to the repercussions of government-imposed tariffs, highlighting their effect on rising prices and low-income households while questioning the government's transparency on fiscal matters.

May 16, 2025 • 18min
Is the new Liberal housing minister up to the task?
In this lively discussion, Matt Spoke, a Toronto real estate developer and Hub contributor, delves into the urgent challenges of housing affordability in Canada. He analyzes the gap between stagnating wages and skyrocketing housing costs, showcasing the need for a holistic approach. Spoke discusses the impact of government policies on housing supply imbalances, critiques the current housing minister's strategies, and proposes innovative tax relief measures to empower young Canadians seeking homeownership. It's a must-listen for anyone concerned about housing issues!

May 16, 2025 • 26min
Carney's first misstep and Ontario as the sick man of North America
This discussion highlights Mark Carney's challenging week, focusing on criticism surrounding his cabinet choices and communication blunders from key ministers. Attention turns to Ontario's alarming budget deficits, questioning the prioritization of short-term spending over sustainable growth. The conversation also navigates the dynamics of political leadership, exploring the potential pitfalls of conventional strategies used by new leaders and the complex realm of pipeline politics and public perception in Canada.

May 16, 2025 • 12min
Canada needs an Opposition that will oppose
Explore the necessity of a strong political opposition in Canada and its impact on government accountability. Discover how Canada excels in well-being but lags behind the U.S. in crucial economic measures. The discussion emphasizes the vital role conservatives play in challenging policies related to immigration and crime, ensuring they fulfill their constitutional responsibilities. It's a deep dive into the complexities of Canada's political landscape and economic performance.